Background

Advances in remote sensing, ground-base surveying, computing and spatial analytical techniques have ushered in a new era of the assessment of fluvial forms and processes. Where historically we have been forced to abstract rivers and streams to one dimensional representations (e.g. cross sections and longitudinal profiles) from a limited number of samples. By contrast, we can now map (2D) entire river corridors in relatively high resolution and acquire topography and bathymetry (2.5D & 3D) by a wide variety of methods. In this session, we will provide an overview of these techniques are facilitating a near-census of the fluvial forms and processes that shape rivers and the ecosystem services they provide.